Anorexia

Anorexia, in medical terms, can refer to a general loss of appetite, but it is most commonly used to describe anorexia nervosa, a serious eating disorder. Anorexia nervosa involves restricted food intake, an intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image that leads to ongoing low body weight and a range of medical complications.

The condition is typically categorized into two main subtypes: restricting type, in which weight loss is achieved through dieting, fasting, or excessive exercise, and binge-eating/purging type, in which episodes of binge eating are followed by compensatory behaviors such as vomiting or misuse of laxatives. Onset frequently occurs during adolescence or young adulthood, and prevalence estimates vary by population, but it is more common in females than in males.

Core features include persistent restriction of energy intake relative to needs, an intense fear of gaining weight or becoming fat, and a disturbance in the way one’s body weight or shape is perceived. Signs may be physical, such as slowed heart rate, low blood pressure, dizziness, fatigue, cold intolerance, and hair changes; some individuals develop lanugo, a fine downy hair. Amenorrhea is not required for diagnosis in current guidelines.

Causes are multifactorial, involving genetic, psychological, social, and environmental factors. Treatment is typically multidisciplinary, combining medical monitoring, nutritional rehabilitation, and psychotherapy (for example, family-based therapy for adolescents or cognitive-behavioral approaches). Medications are not first-line but may address comorbid conditions.

Prognosis varies; early intervention improves outcomes, but recovery can be prolonged and relapse is possible. Long-term health effects can include cardiovascular problems, osteoporosis, reproductive issues, and mental health comorbidity. Public health emphasis centers on early detection, stigma reduction, and access to specialized care.